Electric scooters are a go in some Miami neighborhoods

LimeBike / Courtesy

The Miami city commission approved a one-year pilot program for motor scooters in downtown Miami, Brickell and Coconut Grove. File photo of LimeBike which introduced its dockless scooters in Wynwood last April. - Original Credit: LimeBike - Original Source: courtesy

The Miami city commission approved a one-year pilot program for motor scooters in downtown Miami, Brickell and Coconut Grove. File photo of LimeBike which introduced its dockless scooters in Wynwood last April. - Original Credit: LimeBike - Original Source: courtesy (LimeBike / Courtesy)

On Thursday, the Miami City Commission gave the green light to a one-year electric scooter pilot program in the city’s district that includes the downtown area, Brickell and Coconut Grove neighborhoods.

Mayor Francis Suarez and commissioner Ken Russell co-sponsored the ordinance which passed by a vote of 3-2.

“Scooters are one more transportation option for our residents and visitors to get around, particularly where there are gaps in the public transit system,” Russell said. “The pilot program we approved today in my district will allow the city the time to test out the program, monitor how it works and make any necessary adjustments before deciding whether to roll it out on a larger scale. People are excited to try them and now they will have the chance.”

Riders of the popular two-wheeled scooters can use them on the streets and sidewalks in the approved neighborhoods. Scooter sharing companies will need to get a license to operate in the approved district. The city would consider those companies’ fleet size, parking and data sharing in approving those licenses.

With the new regulations in place in Miami, officials at both companies said they are looking forward to bringing back the scooters.

“After being off the road for nearly six months and working with city of Miami officials, we are thrilled to once again serve area residents and visitors and help reduce cars on the road,’’ said Jed Fluxman, general manager of Lime in Florida.

Said Bird spokesperson Mackenzie Long, “This visionary city shares our goals of improving access to affordable, environmentally friendly transportation options. We are grateful for city officials' leadership and unwavering commitment to this issue, and we look forward to returning to the Magic City soon.”

In August, Coral Gables began a pilot program with scooter company Spin. Riders have to be at least 16-years-old to use them. Coral Gables was the first city in Florida to have a scooter-share program.